Tottenham youngster Andros Townsend and Everton midfielder Ross Barkley are the surprise names in England’s squad to face Moldova and Ukraine in World Cup qualifiers next month.

England manager Roy Hodgson has rewarded both players for impressive starts to the new season with call-ups.

Townsend has forced his way into Andre Villas Boas’ starting line-up in the absence of Gareth Bale. The 22-year-old scored a great solo goal and created two other goals in the Europa League game against Dinamo Tbilisi last week, and won the penalty that secured a 1-0 win against Swansea on Sunday.

Barkley, aged 19, caught the eye with a spectacular goal against Norwich on the opening day of the season, which topped off a superb performance.

It is the first time either player has received a senior call-up.

Southampton striker Rickie Lambert retains his place in the squad after a debut goal against Scotland.